Project co-ordinator, Lindy Stannard, said she was “thrilled” with the turnout for the fourth annual parade.

She said: “In 2008, just six schools took part in the pilot project. This year, we had an amazing 17 first, middle and high schools.

“The theme this year was Outer Space, which everyone was really excited about, and the schools put a lot of time into creating their fantastic artwork for the parade.”

Professional carnival artists from Brighton spent half a day with each school to show them how to make their outer space ideas work. Spaceman Bob, Star Wars and Button Moon were among the colourful creations children carried during the procession through the town.

Lindy added: “I think everyone was worried the weather would spoil the day, but the rain stayed away and proved the children’s parade is unstoppable.”

The parade was funded by Worthing-based company Families for Children.